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South Dakota
Jackson County

Interior

Attractions and Places To See around Interior - Top 8

Best attractions and places to see around Interior encompass the unique geological formations of Badlands National Park. This region is characterized by its rugged landscapes, dramatic canyons, and distinctive rock formations, offering a setting for exploration. Visitors can discover a variety of trails and viewpoints that showcase the area's natural beauty and provide insights into its geological history. The Interior provides opportunities for both accessible walks and more challenging hikes.

Best attractions and places to see around Interior

  • The most popular attractions is Door Trail Boardwalk, Badlands National Park, a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that leads through a natural break in the Badlands Wall. This boardwalk offers visitors of all ability levels a chance to experience stunning views of the Badlands' unique geology.
  • Another must-see spot is Window Trail, an easy, family-friendly viewpoint trail. This short hike leads to a gap in the Badlands formation, providing a photo spot and a view into the backcountry.
  • Visitors also love Notch Trail (Badlands National Park), a challenging trail that winds through a canyon. The trail leads to a log ladder and follows a ledge to “the Notch,” offering views of the White River Valley.
  • Interior is known for its diverse trails, viewpoints, and natural monuments. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, from accessible boardwalks to intermediate and challenging hiking routes.
  • The attractions around Interior are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 photos and 17 upvotes highlighting their appeal.

Last updated: May 16, 2026

Notch Trail (Badlands National Park)

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The Notch Trail in Badlands National Park is a popular hiking destination, especially from March to October. After winding through a canyon, the trail leads to a log ladder and follows a ledge to “the Notch,” offering stunning views of the White River Valley. The trail starts at the south end of the Door and Window parking area. Hikers who take this trail enjoy beautiful scenery, well-marked paths, and the shot but exhilarating wooden ladder climb, but keep in mind the ladder if having a fear of heights. Early starts and sturdy boots are recommended.

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Window Trail

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Next to the Door and Notch Trail, you can take an easy hike on the short Window Trail leading you to a gap in the Badlands formation. It is a nice photo spot and a great view into the backcountry.

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Castle Trail

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At 5 miles one way, this is the longest trail within the park. You can hike it as an out and back to the Fossil Exhibit Trail, or loop it with the Medicine Root Trail.

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Door Trail Boardwalk, Badlands National Park

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Located in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, this wheelchair-accessible ¼ mile boardwalk leads through a natural break in the Badlands Wall known as "the Door." This boardwalk offers visitors of all ability levels a chance to experience stunning views of the Badlands' unique geology. The boardwalk ends at a panoramic viewpoint, providing a spectacular look at the rugged landscape. If you wish to continue, there is a narrow, dirt trail past the boardwalk that continues onto Badlands bedrock, marked with yellow posts.

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Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

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This boardwalk loop provides scenic views of the Badlands, plus plentiful opportunities to view wildlife and, even more amazing in this area, a bit of shade from small juniper trees.

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Popular around Interior

Hiking around Interior

Tips from the Community

Lauren & Bailey 🐕🐾
September 4, 2025, Window Trail

Easy trail! Definitely recommended.

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A really nice walk

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Andrus
January 14, 2025, Castle Trail

At 5 miles one way, this is the longest trail within the park. You can hike it as an out and back to the Fossil Exhibit Trail, or loop it with the Medicine Root Trail.

0

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Lisa
September 28, 2024, Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

This boardwalk loop provides scenic views of the Badlands, plus plentiful opportunities to view wildlife and, even more amazing in this area, a bit of shade from small juniper trees.

0

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The Notch Trail in Badlands National Park is a popular hiking destination, especially from March to October. After winding through a canyon, the trail leads to a log ladder and follows a ledge to “the Notch,” offering stunning views of the White River Valley. The trail starts at the south end of the Door and Window parking area. Hikers who take this trail enjoy beautiful scenery, well-marked paths, and the shot but exhilarating wooden ladder climb, but keep in mind the ladder if having a fear of heights. Early starts and sturdy boots are recommended.

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Located in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, this wheelchair-accessible ¼ mile boardwalk leads through a natural break in the Badlands Wall known as "the Door." This boardwalk offers visitors of all ability levels a chance to experience stunning views of the Badlands' unique geology. The boardwalk ends at a panoramic viewpoint, providing a spectacular look at the rugged landscape. If you wish to continue, there is a narrow, dirt trail past the boardwalk that continues onto Badlands bedrock, marked with yellow posts.

1

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Next to the Door and Notch Trail, you can take an easy hike on the short Window Trail leading you to a gap in the Badlands formation. It is a nice photo spot and a great view into the backcountry.

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Tom
August 24, 2018, Castle Trail

Beware of the rattlesnakes! 😉

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular hiking trails in Badlands National Park?

Visitors particularly enjoy the Notch Trail (Badlands National Park), known for its challenging route through a canyon and a log ladder leading to stunning views of the White River Valley. The Window Trail is also very popular for its easy, family-friendly path to a scenic viewpoint, and the Door Trail Boardwalk, Badlands National Park offers an accessible experience with panoramic views.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Badlands National Park?

Yes, Badlands National Park offers several family-friendly options. The Window Trail is an easy, short hike perfect for families, leading to a gap in the Badlands formation with great views. The Door Trail Boardwalk, Badlands National Park is also suitable for all ages and abilities, being wheelchair-accessible.

Which trails in Badlands National Park are wheelchair accessible?

The Door Trail Boardwalk, Badlands National Park is specifically designed to be wheelchair-accessible. This ¼ mile boardwalk leads through a natural break in the Badlands Wall, offering visitors of all ability levels a chance to experience stunning views of the unique geology.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see in Badlands National Park?

Badlands National Park is characterized by its rugged landscapes, dramatic canyons, and distinctive rock formations. You'll encounter unique geological formations, panoramic viewpoints, and opportunities to observe wildlife. Trails like the Notch Trail and Window Trail showcase these features beautifully.

What are some easy hiking options in Badlands National Park?

For an easy experience, consider the Window Trail, which is short and leads to a great viewpoint. The Door Trail Boardwalk is also an easy, accessible option. Another great choice is the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, a boardwalk loop offering scenic views and a chance to spot wildlife.

Are there any challenging hikes in Badlands National Park?

Yes, the Notch Trail (Badlands National Park) is considered a challenging trail. It winds through a canyon, involves a log ladder climb, and follows a ledge to "the Notch," providing exhilarating views of the White River Valley. Sturdy boots and an early start are recommended for this adventure.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Badlands National Park?

Visitors frequently praise the beautiful scenery, well-marked paths, and the unique geological formations. The exhilarating wooden ladder climb on the Notch Trail is often highlighted, as are the stunning panoramic views from the Door Trail Boardwalk. The opportunity for great photo spots, especially on the Window Trail, is also a common positive remark.

What is the longest trail in Badlands National Park?

The Castle Trail is the longest trail within Badlands National Park, spanning 5 miles one way. You can hike it as an out-and-back route to the Fossil Exhibit Trail or loop it with the Medicine Root Trail for a longer adventure. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the area.

Can I find shade on trails in Badlands National Park?

While much of Badlands National Park is exposed, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail offers a bit of shade from small juniper trees, which is a welcome feature in this area. This boardwalk loop also provides scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.

What outdoor activities can I do near the attractions in Badlands National Park?

Beyond exploring the main attractions, you can enjoy various hiking experiences. There are easy hikes like the Door Trail and Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, as well as more moderate options such as the Notch Trail and the Castle and Medicine Root Trail Loop. These routes offer diverse ways to experience the park's unique landscape.

When is the best time to visit Badlands National Park for hiking?

The Notch Trail, a popular hiking destination, is especially recommended from March to October. Generally, spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures for hiking, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter.

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Most popular attractions around Interior

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